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A lot of times, we assume that braces are the only treatment for adjusting our smiles. But in reality, there’s a whole host of issues we can have with the alignment of our teeth and a whole host of remedies that can resolve them!
Today, our team at One Love Orthodontics is going to tell you all about an appliance called the Carriere Motion Distalizer, specifically how it’s used to treat our adult patients!
What Is This Device?
The Carriere Motion Distalizer is an orthodontic appliance designed to correct certain types of bite and alignment issues in dental arches. More specifically, though, it’s used to treat a condition called malocclusion, which we’ll get into in a moment! But most notably, this tool is utilized when the upper teeth horizontally protrude ahead of the lower teeth (which is also called an overjet). This can be a severe issue if it’s not addressed by a professional like Dr. Dayan.
It should be noted that not every orthodontic office offers options like this appliance! One Love Orthodontics is pleased to give patients a wide variety of options for treatment in our Brooklyn office, including orthodontic surgery.
An Overview of Malocclusion
There are a few types of malocclusion, which is a misalignment of the upper and lower teeth when the jaws are closed. An overbite is called a Class II Malocclusion, while an underbite is a Class III malocclusion. This appliance typically helps with the Class II variety.
Here are a few issues that can arise if an overjet is left untreated:
- Aesthetic Concerns: The appearance of a patient’s smile can be dramatically impacted by this condition, affecting confidence in one’s teeth and facial profile.
- Difficulty Chewing: Issues with chewing food can actually affect digestive health, in addition to being uncomfortable.
- Speech Issues: An overjet affects a patient’s ability to articulate, resulting in speech impediments or difficulties pronouncing certain sounds and words.
- Increased Risk of Dental Injury: When upper teeth protrude, they are more vulnerable to damage, particularly for athletic individuals or in the event of an accident. You are more susceptible to chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth with this condition.
- Oral Hygiene Challenges: Misaligned teeth can be difficult to clean thoroughly, which can promote cavities and gum disease from bacteria production. It may also cause bad breath from trapped food.
- Sleep Apnea: In severe cases, an overjet may be associated with sleep-disordered breathing, such as sleep apnea, due to irregularities in the oral and facial structures.
How the Carriere Motion Distalizer Helps
- The design consists of elastic bands and brackets, some of the same elements that make up braces, but they connect the upper and lower dental arches, kind of like a hinge! The elastic bands apply force and gradually move the protruding upper teeth backward.
- This appliance can be used in adolescents, teenagers, and adults but typically is not used for children since Class II malocclusions usually manifest once the permanent teeth have erupted and the jaw has matured.
Considerations for Adult Patients
While this treatment can be used for a number of ages, here are some particular factors you should consider as an adult.
- Duration: Like with any orthodontic treatment, duration varies based on a number of factors (i.e., the severity of the issue and your compliance with Dr. Dayan’s treatment plan and guidelines). But generally, this appliance is worn for 3-6 months.
- Cost: Patients should always be aware of factors like payment plans and insurance before undergoing a new treatment. Our team will work closely with you to ensure you have a comprehensive approach to payment.
- Combinations of Treatments: In a number of cases, this appliance is part of a broader treatment plan involving other devices to fully transform your bite alignment.
- Other Options: In some cases, Dr. Dayan might use other methods for treating malocclusion, such as traditional braces, clear aligners, etc. However, if you are specifically dealing with a severe overjet, we might determine that the Carriere Motion Distalizer is the optimal treatment for you!
Other Questions
Let’s go over a couple of FAQs you might still have!
- Q: Is the Carriere Motion Distalizer painful to wear?
- You may encounter discomfort and soreness right after your appliance is first placed or when Dr. Dayan makes adjustments. This is common for just about any orthodontic device, though, and can be treated from home with over-the-counter pain medication! If you have any issues with pain, you can always give us a call.
- Q: Is the Carriere Motion Distalizer visible when worn?
- It depends! It can be less obvious than traditional braces but still visible in the mouth at times. This is dependent on the specific design and placement of your device.
- Q: Can I eat normally while wearing the Carriere Motion Distalizer?
- Just like with braces, you’ll probably need to make some adjustments to your diet to avoid damaging your appliance. It’s wise to avoid sticky, hard, and chewy foods.
We Have One Mission: Serving You With Excellence!
There are almost too many types of orthodontic treatment options to name, all depending on the problems you might run into. Part of our job is to ensure you’re well-informed as you embark on a new treatment and feel safe and confident in the process! You can reach out to our Brooklyn team to schedule a free exam with Dr. Dayan.